The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA) Examination I 2026 notification for candidates who want to join the Indian Armed Forces. This recruitment drive is one of the most prestigious opportunities for students after Class 12 who dream of joining the Army, Navy, or Air Force.
A total of 394 vacancies have been announced for NDA 1 2026, and the examination will be conducted on 12 April 2026 across various exam centers in India.
UPSC NDA 1 2026 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | December 2025 |
| Online Application Start | 10 December 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 30 December 2025 |
| Exam Date | 12 April 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | Before Exam (Expected March 2026) |
| Result Declaration | After Exam (Expected mid 2026) |
UPSC NDA 1 2026 Vacancy Details
| Wing | Number of Posts |
|---|---|
| Army Wing | 208 (including female candidates) |
| Navy Wing | 42 (including female candidates) |
| Air Force (Flying Branch) | 92 |
| Air Force (Ground Duty Technical) | 18 |
| Air Force (Ground Duty Non Technical) | 10 |
| Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme) | 24 |
| Total Vacancies | 394 |
Eligibility Criteria for NDA 1 2026
Candidates must meet the following eligibility conditions before applying:
Educational Qualification
- Army Wing: Class 12 passed from any recognized board
- Air Force and Navy Wing: Class 12 passed with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics
- Candidates appearing in Class 12 exam are also eligible to apply
Age Limit
- Only unmarried male and female candidates are eligible
- Date of birth should be between 1 July 2007 and 1 July 2010
Application Fee Details
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| SC/ST/Female Candidates | No Fee |
| All Other Candidates | 100 Rupees |
Payment can be made through:
- Debit Card
- Credit Card
- UPI
- Internet Banking
How to Apply for UPSC NDA 1 202
Candidates can apply online by following these steps:
- Visit the official UPSC application portal
- Complete One Time Registration (OTR)
- Fill the NDA 1 2026 application form
- Upload required documents
- Pay application fee (if applicable)
- Submit the form and download confirmation page
Official Apply Online and Important Links
UPSC NDA Selection Process 202
The selection process for NDA 1 2026 consists of multiple stages:
Written Examination
- Mathematics paper
- General Ability Test (GAT)
SSB Interview
- Psychological tests
- Group discussion
- Personal interview
- Intelligence and personality assessment
Final Merit List
- Based on written exam + SSB interview performance
UPSC NDA Exam Pattern 2026
| Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 300 Marks | 2.5 Hours |
| General Ability Test | 600 Marks | 2.5 Hours |
Total Marks: 900
UPSC NDA 1 2026 Admit Card Details
The admit card will be released a few weeks before the exam. Candidates must download it from the official website and carry it to the examination center.
Important instructions:
- Admit card is mandatory for entry
- Carry valid photo ID proof
- Follow exam guidelines strictly
UPSC NDA Result 2026 Process
After the exam, UPSC will release the NDA 1 2026 result in PDF format. The result will include:
- Roll numbers of qualified candidates
- Merit list
- Cut off marks (later stage)
Candidates who qualify the written exam will be called for the SSB interview round.
Documents Required for NDA Application
Candidates must keep the following documents ready:
- Class 10 certificate
- Class 12 mark sheet (if available)
- Passport size photo
- Signature scanned copy
- Identity proof (Aadhaar, etc.)
Why NDA 1 2026 is a Great Opportunity
The NDA exam is one of the most respected defence entrance exams in India. It offers:
- Permanent career in Indian Armed Forces
- High salary and benefits
- Free training at NDA academy
- Respect and discipline in society
- Career growth in Army, Navy, Air Force
Frequently Asked Questions NDA 1 2026
What is the exam date for NDA 1 2026?
The exam will be conducted on 12 April 2026.
How many vacancies are released in NDA 1 2026?
A total of 394 vacancies have been announced.
Can girls apply for NDA 1 2026?
Yes, female candidates are eligible for selected posts.
What is the age limit for NDA 2026?
Candidates must be born between 1 July 2007 and 1 July 2010.
Where can I apply for NDA 1 2026?
Applications can be submitted on https://upsconline.nic.in
Final Words on UPSC NDA 1 2026 Notification
The UPSC NDA 1 2026 recruitment is a golden opportunity for young aspirants who want to serve the nation by joining the Indian Defence Forces. With 394 vacancies available, candidates should start preparing early to secure their place in this prestigious examination.
Applicants are advised to complete the registration process before the last date and regularly check the official UPSC website for updates regarding admit card, exam schedule, and results.